Three Iran threats the Super Eagles must stop

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will take on Iran in a friendly game tomorrow at the Antalya Stadium in Turkiye, Afrik Foot reports.

With Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup hopes officially over following FIFA’s dismissal of their appeal after the defeat to DR Congo, these friendlies now serve as crucial preparation for upcoming competitions, including AFCON qualifiers and long-term squad rebuilding.

Iran, one of Asia’s most consistent sides in recent years, arrive with quality, experience, and tactical discipline.

Ahead of the clash, Afrik Foot highlights three major Iranian threats Nigeria must contain.

Three Iranian players the Super Eagles must stop

1. Mehdi Taremi

Though now in his early 30s, Mehdi Taremi remains Iran’s most reliable attacking outlet.

The former Inter Milan forward has built a reputation for intelligent movement, clever positioning inside the box, and deadly finishing under pressure. Even when he drops deep, he links play effectively and brings others into the game.

Nigeria’s centre-backs must stay tight and avoid switching off in key moments. Taremi thrives on defensive lapses and half-chances; give him space, and he punishes you.

2. Alireza Jahanbakhsh

Alireza Jahanbakhsh may no longer possess blistering pace, but his technical quality and delivery from wide areas still make him dangerous.

Capable of cutting inside to shoot or whipping crosses into dangerous areas, the ex-Brighton winger adds creativity and balance to Iran’s attack. His experience in European football has refined his decision-making in the final third.

The Super Eagles will need defensive discipline, particularly in tight spaces, to avoid their press being easily beaten, while the midfield must track late and third-man runs into the box.

3. Dennis-Yerai Eckert Ayensa

Born in Bonn, Germany, Eckert finally got his maiden call-up to the Iranian National team at the age of 29, after last representing Germany’s U-19 side on the International stage.

Ayensa’s father is of Iranian descent, and his mother is from Spain, as per Yahoo Sports.

The Standard Liege forward has scored five goals for his club this season, but offers a different profile to their traditional forwards.

Mobile, direct, and comfortable drifting across the front line, Eckert thrives in transitional moments.

His ability to attack space behind the defence could pose problems for Nigeria, especially if the Super Eagles push their defensive line too high.

While the Super Eagles possess their own attacking threats as well, Eric Chelle has to make his players aware of how the Iranians can hurt them at both ends of the pitch.